Classic Poem

Address'd to a Lady in the Country.

My Pocket Tablets, strictly true ,
The following Charge contain 'gainst You . —
Let's see — how many Months are past
Since I dispatch'd a Letter last?
Tis just nine Moons , nay further yet,
I find your Answer still in Debt' —
What has occasion'd this Delay,
You better than myself can say;
It rests with you to give a Reason,
Why this Neglect? — So long a Season !
However, for the present Date,
Suffice to tell in jingling Prate,
How the Complexion of the Times
At present stand respecting Rhimes:
Inclos'd you have my Bill of Fare,
Submitted to your friendly Care;
If so it please you in my Cause,
(Which I entreat by Friendship's Laws)
To give me Vote and Int'rest too,
Much you'll oblige the Scribbler U:
If not, esteem me still a Friend,
I scorn a venal selfish End. —

My best Respects await your Lord,
And all his hospitable Board.